Airline Woes: Thousands of Passengers Stranded in May 1 and 2 Due To a Strike by French Air Traffic Controllers

Overview of the Strike

French air traffic controllers initiated a strike on May 1st and 2nd, 2023.

The strike caused an extensive disturbance to air travel throughout France. Airlines were forced to cancel 33% of flights at Orly Airport and 25% to Paris Charles de Gaulle.

The strike led to widespread disruption, with all flights, even those passing through French airspace, being impacted by this action by workers at one of Europe's busiest airports.*

Response to the Strike

The DGAC implored airlines to curtail their flight operations to and from specified French airports over two days.

Air France announced that it would resume flights on May 1st, with nearly 70% of its short and medium-haul flights taking off and all of its long-haul flights in the air. Air France notified customers affected by flight cancellations via SMS, email, or their app.

Airline Measures to Soften the Blow

Customers were given the choice to move their flights forward or postpone them without any additional cost. Those with canceled flights could receive a voucher or a full refund if they decided not to travel. Air France expressed its sorrow over the strike action. It attempted to reduce its effect on customers by offering refunds, rebooking options, and information about alternative routes via social media channels like Facebook and Twitter.

European Union EC 261/2004 Air Passengers' Rights

Passengers were entitled to be rebooked to their final destination at the earliest opportunity on another carrier. If this was not possible, passengers were entitled to a ticket refund and assistance with alternative transport. Airlines were also mandated to provide essential provisions like nourishment and overnight lodging during protracted delays. Passengers could receive a refund if their flight was canceled or they experienced a lengthy delay.

Summary

The French air traffic controllers' strike significantly disrupted air travel in France. Air France and other airlines did their utmost to soften the blow on customers, informing them individually and providing commercial remedies such as rebooking, accommodation, or refunds. Passengers could take advantage of EU regulations allowing rebooking within 72 hours (or 24 hours for flights departing within 7 days)